2017 Cadillac XT5 cuts weight, adds room over SRX [UPDATE]
Mon, Nov 9 2015
The attention of Cadillac fans may be focused on the new CT6 sedan, but the most important new vehicle in the New York-based company's quiver might be the all-new XT5. Cadillac officially unveiled the SRX replacement today ahead of its full debut in Los Angeles next week.
Short for Crossover Touring 5, the new XT5 drops 278 pounds over the old SRX, while offering an extra 3.2 inches of interior space. The XT5's face balances the best parts of the Escalade and CT6's fascias, with a strong egg-crate grille and prominent LED accent lights. It looks good scaled to a vehicle of this size. The taillights curve up and over the rear haunches, which feed into a strong shoulder line that runs towards the front of the car. It's a solid look, and one we're looking forward to seeing in person.
The interior looks very, very nice, with warm leather and wood trimmings. The steering wheel, with its large, central wood accent, looks remarkably good. In fact, it might be one of our favor parts, if only because it's such a bold piece of design. We aren't crazy about the sheer abundance of buttons on the wheel, though. All four spokes are covered, and it just looks kind of cluttered. As is the trend nowadays, the center console features a floating bridge design with plenty of storage space underneath. Our early impression of the leather-wrapped dash is positive, although as is so often the case, we need to get a hands on before rendering a final judgment.
There are no major surprises under the hood. Like the current SRX, the XT5 utilizes the same 3.6-liter V6 as the CTS and ATS sedans. Start/stop has been fitted, which should provide a boost in fuel economy although no mileage figures have been published yet. Cadillac will also offer a standard 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder XT5, although for reasons that aren't clear, it's only for the Chinese market. This seems like a misstep in our eyes, considering the XT5 will challenge the likes of the BMW X3, Audi Q5, and Mercedes-Benz GLC – all of which offer four-cylinder turbos.
With the V6, the XT5 delivers 310 horsepower and 270 pound-feet of torque. While there's more total horsepower than the Lexus, Audi, or BMW, the 3.6 still faces a torque deficiency versus the turbocharged X3 xDrive35i or supercharged Audi V6.
The XT5 has a standard eight-speed automatic transmission. There isn't a lot of information on the gearbox – it's probably one of GM's in-house HydraMatic units – although it will have Cadillac's first "Electronic Precision Shift" program,
The final feature of note is Cadillac's new Rear Camera Mirror system. Flip into reverse and the rear-view mirror transforms into an all-encompassing rear-view camera that "enhances the driver's rear vision by 300 percent." The system uses a high dynamic range camera and internal software to remove stuff like the roof and pillars for a clear view. We're geeked to try it out.
We'll have much more on the new Cadillac XT5, including live images of its debut, when it shows up at next week's 2015 Los Angeles Auto Show.
New York, November 9, 2015
Cadillac XT5 Initiates New Series of Cadillac Luxury Crossovers
LIGHTWEIGHT CONSTRUCTION ELEVATES EFFICIENCY AND DRIVING PERFORMANCE
ALL-NEW DESIGN AND STRUCTURE INCREASES INTERIOR SPACE WITHOUT ADDING BULK
NEW V6 ENGINE AND ADVANCED ALL-WHEEL DRIVE
NEW TECH INCLUDES REAR CAMERA MIRROR, APPLE
CARPLAY & ANDROID AUTO COMPATIBILITY, NEW CUE SYSTEM
Cadillac today unveiled the first-ever 2017 Crossover Touring 5 (XT5,) a comprehensively upgraded luxury crossover and the cornerstone of a new series of crossovers in the brand's ongoing expansion. The first-ever XT5 premieres this month at the Dubai and Los Angeles auto shows and begins production in the U.S. and China in spring 2016.
The new series of Cadillac crossovers bearing the "XT" designation is a key aspect of the brand's product-driven global growth plan.
"The all-new XT5 not only enters the most popular segment in the worldwide luxury auto market, it is the first of four new crossovers from Cadillac," said Cadillac President Johan de Nysschen. "It's pivotal to our ongoing growth, which is why we've developed XT5 from the inside out to provide customers more space, more technology, more luxury and more efficiency."
The new luxury crossover joins Cadillac's lineup immediately following the new range-topping CT6 Sedan, as the brand enters a new phase of product growth. The XT5 is the next chapter in elevating the Cadillac brand: it is bold, distinctive, sophisticated with superb driving dynamics. This new crossover perfectly reflects Cadillac's positioning in the luxury automotive marketplace, de Nysschen said.
Chassis -- Lightweight, efficient package enables more space
The Cadillac XT5 is completely new, residing on a unique chassis and structure.
Cadillac's new crossover embodies the company's expertise for lightweight and agile driving dynamics. The new XT5 is 278 pounds (126 kg) lighter than the current SRX , and 100 pounds (45 kg) lighter than the Audi Q5 – despite the Cadillac being seven inches longer. The new XT5 is more than 650 pounds (295 kg) lighter than the Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class, achieving this with no compromise to body rigidity and crash performance.
Rear-seat legroom is increased 3.2 in. (8.1 cm) in the XT5, compared to the SRX. The rear seat reclines and slides fore and aft, as well.
Interior Design -- New Cadillac interior design theme emphasizes space and craftsmanship
The XT5 brings a new level of sophistication to showcase Cadillac's evolving design language, recently seen on the upcoming CT6 Sedan. The XT5 has a strong visual presence with proportions that convey the driving experience and the lightweight construction underneath the surface. There is a lean, taut, liquid quality to the surfaces with flowing, uninterrupted lines separated by crisp edges.
"The XT5 has a great stance, with wheels further to the corners and overhangs reduced," said Andrew Smith, Cadillac executive director of global design. "Our team continues to evolve the design language of Cadillac."
The XT5's interior is based on a philosophy of clean, modern elegance and craftsmanship.
"We believe that luxury crossover customers particularly focus on interior design and materials," said Smith. "This design direction is predicated on modern craftsmanship and the artistic integration of technology."
Interior surfaces inside the XT5 are wider and more horizontal in orientation, emphasizing efficient use of space. Like all Cadillac models, the interior is assembled with cut-and-sewn wrapped panels, rather than molded surfaces typical of mainstream vehicles.
"Our focus for the interior was sophistication and simplicity, ensuring an economy of lines to reduce visual noise and clutter," Smith said. "A feeling of space is the ultimate luxury, so we sought to emphasize that. We also use a greater variety of authentic materials and palette of colors to deliver expressive interiors in all trim levels."
Powertrain -- Advanced powertrains add to efficiency and dynamics
In the US market, the 2017 Cadillac XT5 will be powered by the new 3.6- liter V6 engine which debuted earlier this year on the brand's ATS and CTS sport sedans and features on the CT6. This engine has been completely redesigned and features Active Fuel Management cylinder deactivation technology, which allows the engine to seamlessly and automatically switch to a fuel-saving 4-cylinder mode when the load conditions are low or moderate.
With an estimated peak output of 310-horsepower and 270 lbs-ft of torque, the new V6 utilizes variable valve timing for strong response and smooth power delivery. Cadillac's new Stop/Start technology automatically stop and start the engine when the vehicle is at rest in traffic stops, saving fuel and reducing emissions, while enhancing the quietness expected of a luxury vehicle.
In China, the XT5 will be offered with a standard 2.0-liter four cylinder turbocharged engine. Powerful, yet compact, the 2.0T also features Stop/Start technology.
A new 8-speed automatic transmission is standard for the XT5. The XT5 also debuts Electronic Precision Shift – the first electronically controlled transmission shifter for a Cadillac. Electronic Precision Shift reduces noise and vibration, and it allows the cabin space to be further utilized with an innovative storage space beneath the center console.
A new advanced "twin clutch" all-wheel drive system will be optional. This AWD system continuously and automatically delivers excellent traction across a variety of conditions. While engineered specifically for strong performance in wet, snowy or icy conditions, it also provides enhanced stability in dry weather.
Technology -- Advanced technology systems add luxury, safety
The first-ever XT5 includes Cadillac's latest production systems in the areas of connectivity and safety.
Cadillac's patented new industry-leading Rear Camera Mirror system debuts on the CT6 sedan and the XT5. The system enhances the driver's rear vision by 300 percent, using a video display applied over the conventional inside rearview mirror. A high dynamic range camera records images behind the car in a much wider, streams the image to video processing software which "removes" obstacles such as the roof, rear pillars and rear seat passengers, projecting an unobstructed view to an LCD display.
Cadillac XT5 Initiates New Series of Cadillac Luxury Crossovers
LIGHTWEIGHT CONSTRUCTION ELEVATES EFFICIENCY AND DRIVING PERFORMANCE
ALL-NEW DESIGN AND STRUCTURE INCREASES INTERIOR SPACE WITHOUT ADDING BULK
NEW V6 ENGINE AND ADVANCED ALL-WHEEL DRIVE
NEW TECH INCLUDES REAR CAMERA MIRROR, APPLE
CARPLAY & ANDROID AUTO COMPATIBILITY, NEW CUE SYSTEM
Cadillac today unveiled the first-ever 2017 Crossover Touring 5 (XT5,) a comprehensively upgraded luxury crossover and the cornerstone of a new series of crossovers in the brand's ongoing expansion. The first-ever XT5 premieres this month at the Dubai and Los Angeles auto shows and begins production in the U.S. and China in spring 2016.
The new series of Cadillac crossovers bearing the "XT" designation is a key aspect of the brand's product-driven global growth plan.
"The all-new XT5 not only enters the most popular segment in the worldwide luxury auto market, it is the first of four new crossovers from Cadillac," said Cadillac President Johan de Nysschen. "It's pivotal to our ongoing growth, which is why we've developed XT5 from the inside out to provide customers more space, more technology, more luxury and more efficiency."
The new luxury crossover joins Cadillac's lineup immediately following the new range-topping CT6 Sedan, as the brand enters a new phase of product growth. The XT5 is the next chapter in elevating the Cadillac brand: it is bold, distinctive, sophisticated with superb driving dynamics. This new crossover perfectly reflects Cadillac's positioning in the luxury automotive marketplace, de Nysschen said.
Chassis -- Lightweight, efficient package enables more space
The Cadillac XT5 is completely new, residing on a unique chassis and structure.
Cadillac's new crossover embodies the company's expertise for lightweight and agile driving dynamics. The new XT5 is 278 pounds (126 kg) lighter than the current SRX , and 100 pounds (45 kg) lighter than the Audi Q5 – despite the Cadillac being seven inches longer. The new XT5 is more than 650 pounds (295 kg) lighter than the Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class, achieving this with no compromise to body rigidity and crash performance.
Rear-seat legroom is increased 3.2 in. (8.1 cm) in the XT5, compared to the SRX. The rear seat reclines and slides fore and aft, as well.
Interior Design -- New Cadillac interior design theme emphasizes space and craftsmanship
The XT5 brings a new level of sophistication to showcase Cadillac's evolving design language, recently seen on the upcoming CT6 Sedan. The XT5 has a strong visual presence with proportions that convey the driving experience and the lightweight construction underneath the surface. There is a lean, taut, liquid quality to the surfaces with flowing, uninterrupted lines separated by crisp edges.
"The XT5 has a great stance, with wheels further to the corners and overhangs reduced," said Andrew Smith, Cadillac executive director of global design. "Our team continues to evolve the design language of Cadillac."
The XT5's interior is based on a philosophy of clean, modern elegance and craftsmanship.
"We believe that luxury crossover customers particularly focus on interior design and materials," said Smith. "This design direction is predicated on modern craftsmanship and the artistic integration of technology."
Interior surfaces inside the XT5 are wider and more horizontal in orientation, emphasizing efficient use of space. Like all Cadillac models, the interior is assembled with cut-and-sewn wrapped panels, rather than molded surfaces typical of mainstream vehicles.
"Our focus for the interior was sophistication and simplicity, ensuring an economy of lines to reduce visual noise and clutter," Smith said. "A feeling of space is the ultimate luxury, so we sought to emphasize that. We also use a greater variety of authentic materials and palette of colors to deliver expressive interiors in all trim levels."
Powertrain -- Advanced powertrains add to efficiency and dynamics
In the US market, the 2017 Cadillac XT5 will be powered by the new 3.6- liter V6 engine which debuted earlier this year on the brand's ATS and CTS sport sedans and features on the CT6. This engine has been completely redesigned and features Active Fuel Management cylinder deactivation technology, which allows the engine to seamlessly and automatically switch to a fuel-saving 4-cylinder mode when the load conditions are low or moderate.
With an estimated peak output of 310-horsepower and 270 lbs-ft of torque, the new V6 utilizes variable valve timing for strong response and smooth power delivery. Cadillac's new Stop/Start technology automatically stop and start the engine when the vehicle is at rest in traffic stops, saving fuel and reducing emissions, while enhancing the quietness expected of a luxury vehicle.
In China, the XT5 will be offered with a standard 2.0-liter four cylinder turbocharged engine. Powerful, yet compact, the 2.0T also features Stop/Start technology.
A new 8-speed automatic transmission is standard for the XT5. The XT5 also debuts Electronic Precision Shift – the first electronically controlled transmission shifter for a Cadillac. Electronic Precision Shift reduces noise and vibration, and it allows the cabin space to be further utilized with an innovative storage space beneath the center console.
A new advanced "twin clutch" all-wheel drive system will be optional. This AWD system continuously and automatically delivers excellent traction across a variety of conditions. While engineered specifically for strong performance in wet, snowy or icy conditions, it also provides enhanced stability in dry weather.
Technology -- Advanced technology systems add luxury, safety
The first-ever XT5 includes Cadillac's latest production systems in the areas of connectivity and safety.
Cadillac's patented new industry-leading Rear Camera Mirror system debuts on the CT6 sedan and the XT5. The system enhances the driver's rear vision by 300 percent, using a video display applied over the conventional inside rearview mirror. A high dynamic range camera records images behind the car in a much wider, streams the image to video processing software which "removes" obstacles such as the roof, rear pillars and rear seat passengers, projecting an unobstructed view to an LCD display.
By Brandon Turkus
See also: Cadillac Escalade driven by Tony Soprano for sale, Cadillac CT6 hits dealers in March for $54,490, GM adds 1,200 jobs at Detroit-Hamtramck plant.